Project Synopsis

Mid-infrared (mid-IR) spectroscopy in the form of Fourier Transform IR (FTIR) spectrometers has long been established as a work horse for label free, non- destructive chemical characterization of bio materials. However, in many industrial applications, especially in biotechnological applications conventional mid-IR spectroscopy is not robust or sensitive enough.

We’ve demonstrated that by leveraging novel mid-IR laser light sources – quantum cascade lasers (QCLs) – techniques that outperform conventional FTIR based approaches both in sensitivity and robustness can be developed. Building on this success, in this project, we work together with several industrial partners to bring QCL environmental and bio-process analysis to the next level. We will work with a leading manufacturer of mid-IR lasers to develop new sensing schemes beyond what is possible with conventional transmission absorption approaches. We will work with a leading, international bio-pharma company to integrate mid-IR spectroscopy into their processes and develop novel data evaluation strategies to turn spectra into actionable process information, and we will work with a highly innovative sensor company to go for highest sensitivity chemical trace detection.

Scope of your contribution

You will be working at TU Wien as part of a multinational team of chemists, physicists and electrical engineers to develop novel highly sensitive mid-IR trace sensing techiques, leveraging the high power spectral density of QCL lasers for indirect spectroscopy to achieve high sensitivity trace sensing.

Your work will include the design and implementation of optical setups, multi-physics finite element modeling and mechanical design using CAD.

As with any doctoral thesis, here, a great deal of self-motivated, creative work is expected. The group has a positive, collaborative work environment and the team of experienced graduate and post graduate students is happy to lend a hand. Attendance of international scientific conferences and publishing of scientific articles is strongly encouraged.